Japanese Bantam Club 

                                            of            

       Great Britain     

Although Japanese Bantams look different from most other breeds, and indeed the wild jungle fowl that they originated from, they can be fed in the same way as other types of fowl.

Pellets or Mash                                                     

These days complete meals in the form of pellets or mash are readily available at affordable and are a very convenient and mess free way to feed your stock. Pellets are used by most fanciers and are usually fed dry; mesh can be wet or dry. Wet mesh has the advantage over dry in that less is wasted by the bird flicking out of the feeders, but you must make sure that it is eaten up within the same day, or it will go sour and be wasted. Your feeders will need washing regularly to remove any wet mash left sticking to them. Dry mash doesn't give you this problem but you may find that unless your feeders have a lip to prevent the bird flicking the mash about, the birds waste more than they actually consume. These dried pellets and mashes are made up by various manufacturers and should be available from agricultural/corn merchants. Most pet shops would be happy to supply you, but in some cases you may need to order this. Pellets and mash are usually sold in 20/25 kilo sacks; if you have a very small number of birds you should be able to buy smaller amounts loose.

Grain                                                                                                           

It is also possible to feed the birds on grain along with your pellets, or instead of them altogether. Bear in mind that if you feed a large proportion of something else with a balanced diet you may be unbalancing it! Wheat may be fed to Japs along with pellets, either mixed together- about half and half- or as a separate feed, often given before the birds roost. It can be bought cheaply, especially if you can find a tame farmer! Maize tends to make birds fat if they are given too much; this is bad because it makes them unhealthy and less fertile, but in small quantities or as an occasional food, it will keep their legs and beaks a lovely shade of yellow- ideal for showing. Chopped oats is another well used food; other grains are available, but are less balanced that, say, wheat. You will probably find that your merchant/shop can supply you with sacks of ready mixed poultry corn.

Grit                                                                      

There are two main ways in which the birds will use grit. Small stones are used by the birds to grind down any hard feed such as corn. The birds must be allowed this if they are fed corn in any quantity, otherwise they will not be able to digest it properly. The grit is held in a muscular organ called the gizzard, and here it physically grinds down the corn. The birds have developed this organ to compensate for the fact that they swallow food whole and are unable to chew. The other use for grit is to extract calcium for growth and maintenance, but especially for the production of egg shells. Not all grits will yield calcium, but 'oyster shell', which is a mixture of crushed shells, can be bought especially for this purpose. You can also buy mixed grit containing both types. Birds fed solely on mash/pellets do not need grit, as calcium is provided in the food and they can digest it without grinding; but you may provide it if you like. Birds allowed to roam outside may be able to select their own girt from the ground. Grit may be fed ad lib from cups or hoppers, or alternatively you can give it occasionally by hand.

Water                                                                            

Clean fresh water must available at all times, When the birds are laying they will drink larger quantities. Bowls on the floor tend to get soiled easily, but there are many different fountains or drinkers available. Aviary types may be more suitable for smaller pens than bulky poultry drinkers; chick drinkers may be ideal. Drinkers should stay clean and be able to supply the birds until the next time you fill them up (usually daily, some fountains may last for days; this is fine as long as the water is not fouled by litter, dirt or feed).

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This Website was prepared for the Japanese Bantam Club of Great Britain by Terry and Lisa Crook. If you have any questions or comments please Email the club at: japclub@ukonline.co.uk

Last updated on 24/02/2005